War On Terror News

Cadet at Aussie Military Academy charged with indecency

A foreign cadet who is attending ADFA will appear in the ACT Magistrates Court on Tuesday 29 May in relation to an alleged incident involving acts of indecency at ADFA in early May.

The Australian Defence Force and the Australian Defence Force Academy takes such allegations very seriously.

Memorial Day: Remember With Honor

From SGT Mike Stokely's Dad, Robert Stokely:

Memorial Day is a very special day. It was originally called Decoration Day: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Memorial_Day


It is a day we have the opportunity to stop, even for a brief moment, and Remember With Honor the 1,000,000 or so men and women who gave their lives on the field of battle to found, protect and preserve our freedoms and American way of life. A high price was paid by each one of these men and women.

Some gave their tomorrows for us to have a new today each and every day. To say they were all in is an understatement. Those who had no children committed the tomorrows of future unborn generations who will now never be born.

And their families have paid a never ending price as well. When I have been asked what I think the cost of Freedom is, I answer a lifetime of love, for that is what the Families of the Fallen bear each day as they remember the loved one they lost. Memorial Day is a day for happiness and celebration, and well we all should, for a high price was paid that we might do so in freedom and security from the enemies who would wipe us off the face of the earth, but for the 1,000,000 who have gave their lives for you and I.

Some ask me from time to time how to make it better for the Families of the Fallen. I don't think there is but one real way to make it better, but that is not going to happen for no person has the power to give us back the loved one we lost. But it is helpful, at least to me, to know that people care what my son, SGT Mike Stokely, gave America and I would suggest others who have lost someone in war would feel the same way.

The best way in my eyes to show you care is to Make it Matter. Love America as much as the 1,000,000 have shown they loved America. Live life fully and enjoy the freedom that has been preserved for you. And, when you get an opportunity, even if it is only a small one, care about someone around you, whether a stranger, friend or family member and give a little of yourself to make it better for them. And on this Memorial Day, if only for a brief moment, Remember With Honor 1,000,000 and those yet to come, who have made the sacrifice of a Lifetime of Love. They have entrusted their forever to you.

Robert Stokely
proud dad SGT Mike Stokely
KIA 16 AUG 05 near Yusufiyah Iraq
USA E 108 CAV 48th Brigade Combat Team Georgia Army National Guard
DUTY HONOR COUNTRY

 

We are the Land of the Free, because of the Brave, who volunteer to defend all that the Star Spangled Banner represents.

Remember them ALL - and their families - with honour.

War in Afghanistan News - 28 May 2012

KABUL, Afghanistan – An Afghan and coalition security force conducted an operation to detain a senior Taliban leader in Nahr-e Saraj district, Helmand province, Sunday.  The leader is the senior Taliban insurgent in Marjeh district and manages multiple insurgent cells in the area.

He directs suicide bombings and other attacks against Afghan and coalition troops throughout Marjeh and Nahr-e Saraj districts.  He also coordinates with Taliban leaders to move suicide bombers and explosives into Afghanistan for use against Afghan and coalition forces.

The security force detained multiple suspected insurgents as a result of this operation.

Tailor the way you get your War On Terror News

In other International Security Assistance Force news throughout Afghanistan:

#MilitaryMon Moments of Silence #MoS to #HonorTheFallen 28 May 2012 1PM-1:13 ET

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare) Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

REQUEST that all afford my Brothers a Moment of Silence each on Monday beginning 1:00 PM, Eastern Time.  REQUEST that each Moment of Silence be dedicated each Monday to my Fallen Brothers in order of notification since prior Monday.  1PM Eastern is Kabul 22:30/10:30PM, Baghdad 20:00/8PM, London 18:00/6PM, San Diego 10AM.  This time accommodates those in London, Baghdad & Kabul as well as Congress and across the United States.

• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1PM to 1:02 EDT: SGT #Bowe #Bergdahl, Kidnapped by Taliban, Two Minutes until he comes home #MIA #SOT #MoS
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:02-1:03 EDT: SGT Michael J Knapp, Overland Park, KS 05/18/12 Asadabad AFG 1-317th FAR 17th Fires BDE
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:03-1:04 EDT: SGT Jabraun S Knox, Fort Wayne, IN 05/18/12 Asadabad AFG 1-317th FAR 17th Fires BDE
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:04-1:05 EDT: SPC Samuel T Watts, Wheaton, IL 05/19/12 Zharay AFG 05/19/12 1-508th PIR 82nd ABN
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:05-1:06 EDT: CPT Jesse A Ozbat, Prince George, VA 05/20/12 Tarin Kowt AFG 168th BSB 214th Fires BDE
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:06-1:07 EDT: 2LT Tobias C Alexander, Lawton, OK 05/20/12 Tarin Kowt AFG 168th BSB 214th Fires BDE
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:07-1:08 EDT: SPC Aaronn D Fields, Terre Haute, IN 05/21/12 Qalah-ye Mirza Jal AFG 81st Troop Cmd
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:08-1:09 EDT: 2LT Travis A Morgado, San Jose, CA 05/23/12 Zharay AFG 5-20th Inf Rgt 2nd ID
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:09-1:10 EDT: PO1 Ryan J Wilson, Shasta, CA 05/20/12 BAHRAIN US Naval Forces CentCom
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:10-1:11 EDT: Cpl Keaton G Coffey, Boring, OR 05/24/12 Helmand AFG 1st LE Bn 1st MarHQ 
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:11-1:12 EDT: PFC Cale C Miller, Overland Park, KS 05/24/12 Maiwand AFG 4-23rd Inf RGT 2nd ID
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:12-1:13 EDT: Snn Eric D Warren, Shawnee, OK 05/26/12 Helmand AFG 1-8 MarRgt 1st MarDiv

 

•  

Republication WITHOUT attribution of Moments of Silence is encouraged.  Tailoring quotes and tribute video is encouraged but not required, while it is requested that the times and names be maintained intact.  Each moment is tailored to meet twitter norms and to be tweeted at that time, Each Monday, based on order of notification.

.......and they're OFF!!

For many folks, the running season is never ending, depending on where you are located.  With its members scattered halfway across the United States, members of "Team For Those Who Can't" begin their marathon training at different times.  For many, they have been running all year long, others are just beginning to conquer races in the lead up to when their actual marathon training schedule begins.

You see, the team is made up of veterans, civilians and a rank newbie.  Several members have previously run the Marine Corps Marathon.  One will be running their first ever marathon.  What brings them all together you might ask?

I would answer that question this way.  They are all CRAZY!!!!! 

RIP Smn Eric D Warren

 The Department of Defense announced today the death of a sailor who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Hospitalman Eric D. Warren, of Shawnee, Okla., died May 26 of wounds received in action due to an improvised explosive device blast in Sangin District, Helmand Province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 6, 1st Marine Division (Forward), I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward), Camp Lejeune, N.C.

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare) Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

UN puts blame on Syrian Govt for killing 112 Syrians

The United Nations' mission chief in Syria told the U.N. Security Council Sunday that at least 116 people, including many children, were killed in last week's attack on the central town of Houla.

General Robert Mood, told the 15-member council that another 300 people were wounded in the incident. U.N. observers had initially counted 92 dead in Houla.

International officials have largely blamed the government for Friday's massacre – in which at least 32 children under the age of 10 were murdered – but Damascus and Moscow have suggested it was carried out by rebel fighters.

Syrian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Jihad Makdissi called accusations against the Syrian government a “tsunami of lies”. Instead, he blamed heavily armed “terrorists” who he claimed attacked soldiers.

Islamist Donkey Bomb Kills 3 Pakis in Quetta.

Pakistani officials say a remote-controlled bomb exploded near a police van in the country's southwest Sunday, killing three passers-by and wounding at least one other person.

The officials say the blast took place in Quetta, the capital of the restive Baluchistan province bordering Afghanistan and Iran. They say the bomb was planted on a donkey cart.

No one claimed responsibility for the attack.

Baluchistan is home to various militant groups, including pro-Taliban factions, and Baluch separatists who are fighting a low-level insurgency in hopes of gaining political autonomy and a greater share of the profits from the region's natural resources.

Amnesty International says Baluchistan is one of the most militarized regions of Pakistan, where armed sectarian groups, government security forces and criminal gangs operate with impunity. VoA.

Afghan seek to improve border security

by Sgt. Brendan Mackie, FORWARD OPERATING BASE KOSTEL, Afghanistan – Afghan National Security Force liaisons and International Security Assistance Force members at the Joint Border Coordination Center are working to ensure peace and stability along a 1,100-kilometer stretch of the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. They battle insurgent smuggling operations using words – not weapons. Through effective communication between security forces on both sides of the border, the JBCC works to ensure a stable future for Afghanistan.

“I believe the contributions of the team here, as well as all of our ANSF partners and ISAF here, has put Afghanistan on an irreversible path of progress,” said Maj. Gen. Jim Huggins, commander of the Regional Command-South and the 82nd Airborne Division. “Under the most trying circumstances, we are working with our Afghan brothers and our Pakistani friends, trying to keep tensions down here so we can continue to provide regional stability for this part of the world.”

Maj. Gen. Jim Huggins, commander of Regional Command-South and the 82nd Airborne Division, meets with Lt. Col. Sayed Asadi of the Afghan National Army (center), and Col. Abdul Khalil of the 3rd Zone Afghan Border Police, outside the Joint Border Coordination Center at Forward Operating Base Kostel, May 17, 2012. Both Afghan officers serve as liaisons between their respective services and the JBCC.

Chinese dissident's family feel Government pressure

A rights lawyer says the older brother of blind Chinese dissident Chen Guangcheng has returned to his village in eastern China after escaping guards on Tuesday and travelling to Beijing.

Attorney Ding Xikui said Sunday that he was told by a friend of the family that Chen Guangfu had returned to Dongshigu village after seeking legal advice in the capital about how to protect his son from what he says are retaliatory criminal charges.

Chen Kegui has been charged with attempted murder following a clash with officials who burst into his home after discovering his uncle had fled.

Chen Guangcheng, escaped house arrest in April, seeking protection at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing. The situation created a diplomatic standoff between the U.S. and China that was resolved when Beijing allowed him to fly to the U.S. to study.

Human rights activists say the authorities have increased their repression against Chen Guangcheng's family, who have been effectively under house arrest in Dongshigu. VoA.

Engineers raise $4300 for Non-profits, with pies in the face

by Sgt. Joseph Koktan 980th Engineers, KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – On a hot, sunny day at Kandahar Airfield, members of the 980th Engineer Battalion of Austin, Texas, gathered together for outdoor games, music, grilled food, and charitable pie throwing.

About a month before the day of festivities, troops began placing monetary bids on the coveted opportunity to throw three pies at an officer or soldier of their choosing. Upping the ante, Battalion Commander, Lt. Col. Wyatt Lowery of Melissa, Texas, allowed each winning bidder to take a full day off of work—the highest overall bidder earned a two-day trip to any military base in Afghanistan.

Pictured: Capt. Marc Richardson of Hot Springs, Ark., wipes the pudding off his face after participating in a pie throwing fundraiser for wounded warriors, Sunday, May 13, 2012, at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan. Soldiers raised $4,300 for the Fisher House Foundation, Travis Mills Foundation and Wounded Warrior Project.

ANA Literacy Rates Triple

KABUL - Thirty-five Afghan National Army recruits sit quietly in a tent at the Kabul Military Training Center (KMTC), a vast military base and training area located in the eastern fringes of Afghanistan’s capital city, as an Afghan teacher works through the day’s lesson – the first letters in the alphabet. 

Pictured: Afghan National Army recruits write their final literacy exams as part of their Basic Warrior course before proceeding to the next phase of their training, May 10, 2012.

There are 39 similar tents at KMTC, accommodating 1,400 more ANA army recruits in different phases of their literacy training. Nearly 9,000 ANA recruits are enrolled in basic training at KMTC and nearly all of them begin with learning to read, write, count and calculate.

War In Afghanistan News - 27 May 2012

BAGRAM, Afghanistan (May 26, 2012) Approximately 300 to 500 people staged a protest of alleged Coalition force activities in Sayyidadbad district, Wardak province this morning.

According to Mohammad Halim Fidai, the Wardak Provincial Governor, the protest was the result of insurgent supporters lying to local residents and falsely reporting to them that Coalition Forces displayed acts of disrespect to Islam and the Quran. This was done in retaliation to successful Afghan Security Forces and Coalition Forces operations launched against armed insurgents over the prior two days, which resulted in the death of two Taliban commanders, he added.

Egyptians face Presidential choice between Muslim Brotherhood & Secularist

The top two vote-getters in Egypt's first round of presidential elections reached out to their rivals Saturday and described their visions of building a new Egypt if elected in next month's run-off.

Former Prime Minister Ahmed Shafiq, a secularist, has praised the “glorious” revolution that toppled President Hosni Mubarak, and vowed there will be no “re-creation” of the old regime. Shafiq said he was extending his hand to all political forces, especially the young people, who were the backbone of the uprising, and said nobody will be excluded or pushed aside by the new government.

“Egypt is for everyone. No one will be excluded and no one will be pushed aside. Everyone must have a share in this nation.”

But Muslim Brotherhood candidate Mohammed Mursi dismissed Shafiq as a symbol of the old regime and refused any cooperation with it, saying it ruined the country. He promised to create a new regime based on one that is inclusive of all forces in the country.

UN Observes Continue to watch as Syrian Forces Slay 90

Activists say Syrian government shelling since Friday has killed at least 90 people, including many children, in some of the worst violence since an uprising against Syria's regime began more than a year ago.

The attacks on a residential area in the central town of Houla tarnished a fragile six-week-old cease-fire between government and opposition forces.

U.N. military and civilian observers in Houla counted, among the dead, at least 30 children under age 10 and at leasat 60 adults.

Videos posted on YouTube purportedly showed images of dead children.

The casualty count could not be independently confirmed.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and his joint special envoy for Syria, Kofi Annan, condemned the violence. In a statement, the two men described the attacks as an “appalling and brutal crime involving indiscriminate and disproportionate use of force.”

Pope's Butler arrested for theft of private letters

The Vatican confirmed Saturday that Pope Benedict's butler has been arrested on suspicion of leaking confidential documents and letters from the pontiff's private quarters.

Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi said 46-year-old Paolo Gabriele was arrested Wednesday after secret documents were found in his Vatican City home. Gabriele had been the pope's personal butler since 2006, one of the few members of the papal household, which includes a few nuns and secretaries.

The scandal, dubbed “Vatileaks” by the media, involves the leaking of a string of documents earlier this year to Italian media. The documents allege corruption in Vatican finances and have centered on the activities of Cardinal and Vatican Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone.

The pope has ordered several investigations into the leak, which took on greater weight several days ago with the publication of “His Holiness,” a book written by Gianluigi Nuzzi that reproduced confidential letters and documents reportedly smuggled out by unnamed whistle blowers. VoA.

1st Marines Bring in NY Detective to Teach Forensics

by Lance Cpl. Tyler Reiriz 1st MarDiv

WUSHTAN, Afghanistan - Marc Davis took a few minutes to talk to an old Afghan man on the road, May 19. As a veteran of the New York City police force, it is a scenario he has been through hundreds of times. The only difference is that instead of taking place on a busy city street surrounded by towering skyscrapers, it’s happening on a dirt road next to a mosque surrounded by small mud buildings in Washtun, Afghanistan.

Davis, 47, recently retired from a long career as a detective investigating robberies and homicides in New York City. He now uses the skills he honed as a detective in his new job as a law-enforcement professional working with the Marine Corps.

“What we do is bring some of the criminal justice applications from the American city streets to work in Afghanistan,” he said. “The Marines right now are basically doing detective work, but they are here in a combat zone. We are trying to bridge that gap.”

Pictured: Marc Davis, a law-enforcement professional working with 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, patrols past a broken wall here, May 19, 2012. Davis, a retired New York City detective, uses skills he gathered during his time with the police force to help train Marines in proper evidence collecting and forensics procedures.

RIP PFC Cale C Miller

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Pfc. Cale C. Miller, 23, of Overland Park, Kan, died May 24, in Maiwand, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare) Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

RIP Cpl Keaton G Coffey

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Cpl. Keaton G. Coffey, 22, of Boring, Ore., died May 24 while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to 1st Law Enforcement Battalion, 1st Marine Headquarters Group, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare) Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

Can Left-Wing Terrorist, Brett Kimberlin, Change His Spots?

Brett Kimberlin, convicted serial bomber/terrorist has issued threats to a well known blogger sufficiently serious and believable that said blogger, Stacy McCain, has abandoned his home and gone into hiding to protect his family.  The left wing terrorist doesn't seem to like that his past convictions and current left-wing benefactors were made public, again.

Kimberlin has been convicted of drug running and acts of terrorism, caught red-handed with timers and detonators for explosives as well as with 5 and a half tons of drugs on his family's property and in a trans-national shipment.  He has been convicted on perjury charges as well.  He was suspected in a murder case of a grandmother who was suspicious that her minor granddaughter was a victim in an illicit relationship with Kimberlin.

Afghan Parliament Approves Obama Agreement

Afghanistan's parliament on Saturday ratified a strategic partnership agreement between Kabul and Washington.

The deal was approved in the Walasi Jirga with more than 150 lawmakers turning out for the vote. Only a handful of lawmakers voted against the measure.

The pact covers security, economics and governance, and spells out the heavy financial U.S. relationship to Afghanistan beyond 2014 when most NATO forces are planning to conclude their "combat role." It does not commit the U.S. to any specific troop presence, but pledges significant U.S. aid for Afghanistan for at least a decade after most foreign combat forces leave.

The agreement also allows the U.S. to keep a reduced number of troops in Afghanistan for the continued training of Afghan forces and targeted operations against al-Qaida, while preventing the construction of permanent bases for those Troops.

The U.S. embassy in Kabul welcomed the ratification. Its spokesperson, citing President Barack Obama, told VOA that “the strategic partnership agreement is a clear message from the United States to the Afghan people that, 'As you stand, you will not stand alone.'”

President Obama and his Afghan counterpart, Hamid Karzai, signed the agreement early this month in Kabul. VoA.

American Reporter Released in Ethiopia

A Voice of America correspondent in Ethiopia has been released from custody and charges dropped after being detained in Addis Ababa, while trying to cover a demonstration Friday.

Peter Heinlein told VOA editors by telephone Saturday he is in good condition and has returned to his residence in the capital.

Witnesses to the arrest told VOA Friday that Heinlein and his translator Simegineh Yekoye were detained while trying to interview protesters during a Muslim demonstration following Friday prayers. She has also been released and any charges against her have been dropped.

2nd MAW Gets New Commander

by Lance Cpl. Scott L. Tomaszycki 2nd MAW

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. - Lt. Col. Patrick S. Kirchner assumed command of Marine Tactical Air Command Squadron 28 from Lt. Col. Thomas P. Bajus II during a ceremony here today.

Bajus will move on to duties as the wing air control officer for the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing.

Pictured: Lt. Col. Thomas P. Bajus II hands off the squadron colors to symbolize the change of responsibility during the Marine Tactical Air Command Squadron change of command ceremony aboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., May 25.

In his farewell speech to his Marines, he praised their efforts during his tenure as commanding officer.

War In Afghanistan News - 26 May 2012

 One local man was killed today and two local children were injured by an improvised explosive device near Sangin in Helmand province. Afghan police have begun moving the children to a coalition medical facility for treatment.

Also in Helmand province today, a bus carrying local civilians struck an improvised explosive device near Gereshk. Afghan officials have reported two civilians dead and four injured as a result of the attack.

"These are examples of how the insurgents plant IEDs with a complete disregard for the safety of innocent civilians," said Lt. Col. Stewart Upton, spokesperson for ISAF's Regional Command Southwest.

Additionally, in the past four days, insurgents have killed eight Afghan civilians in the eastern province of Ghazni, Afghanistan.

The most recent incident was yesterday when a civilian bus travelling through Ghazni going to Kabul was struck by an improvised explosive device that was planted on a public road, said Musa Khan Akbarzada, Ghazni Provincial Governor.

"This was another sad incident caused by the inhuman and un-Islamic acts of the enemies of the people of Afghanistan. This act resulted in five of our Afghan citizens, including three men and two women, being killed and 16 others, including children, being severely wounded," Akbarzada said.

"Planting bombs along public roads is a cowardly act by the enemies of the people of Afghanistan that can only result in the killing and wounding of innocent Afghan citizens. It is a direct attack on innocent Afghan citizens, and I condemn it with the strongest terms," he added. 

Air Force Trains Afghan Women to Maintain Equipment

by Senior Airman Alexandria Mosness, KABUL, Afghanistan - The four Afghan air force lieutenants stand at a petite five feet, their uniforms bear the proud patches of military members serving their country. They wear something that is not common in the Afghan air force - a hijab, a head covering sometimes worn by Muslim women.

These women are trying to make the anomaly of women in the military a thing of the past.  The Afghan Air Force Kabul Wing was the first to graduate six female Afghan maintenance officers in 2012.
Pictured: U.S. Air Force Capt. Vanessa Vanden Bout, 439th Air Expeditionary Advisory Squadron, gender integration advisor and force support squadron advisor, hands out patches to the Afghan Air Force female maintenance officers at Kabul, Afghanistan, International Airport, May 22, 2012. The patches had the American and Afghanistan flag together along with the word sisters in Dari and English. Vanden Bout, deployed from 3rd Air Force, Ramstein, Germany, has worked in getting more women into the Afghan Air Force. The Vermilion, Ohio, native has worked with the Afghan female officers and wanted to show a sign of appreciation and welcome with the patches.

Middle East News 25 May 2012

In central Turkey, suspected suicide attackers have set off a car bomb near a police station, killing one policeman and wounding nearly 20 civilians.   Turkey's interior minister, Idris Naim Sahin, said two suspects sped through a checkpoint Friday and detonated the bomb outside a police station in the town of Pinarbasi in Kayseri province.

U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon says the "stepped-up security crackdown" by the Syrian government is leading to "massive violations of human rights" by both sides of the conflict.
In a report to the U.N. Security Council Friday, Ban said the presence of unarmed U.N. observers is "having a calming effect" but the overall level of violence in Syria remains "quite high".

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton says "significant differences" remain over Iran's nuclear program following two days of talks in Baghdad. She also says Pakistan's conviction of a doctor who helped in the capture of Osama bin Laden is "unjust."

Egypt's presidential race appeared headed on Friday to a decisive and polarizing runoff between the Islamist Muslim Brotherhood’s candidate and another with strong ties to former President Hosni Mubarak’s regime. Preliminary counts from Egypt's first free presidential race show the Brotherhood's Mohammed Morsi in the lead and former prime minister and secularist Ahmed Shafiq a strong second.

Details after the break.

Video: What about the British Wounded Warriors?

May 24, 2012 by BritishForcesNews

Forces families Armed forces families coping with disability have been left disappointed at a conference attended by the Minister for Disabled People.

Maria Miller said her door was always open but she gave no reassurance to those worried about cuts to their benefits at the Forces Additional Needs and Disability Conference.

She talked about the support being given to injured service personnel from Afghanistan. However families here wanted to hear about what will be done for those coping with a disability, disabled child or partner.

Housing and adaptations to housing topped the list of worries at the conference. Families who are expected to move house in the forces are still struggling to get houses made suitable for special needs.

They have started a tri-service survey to pass on to the chain of command in the hope military homes can be adapted for special needs more effectively.

(c) MoD

Yemen: U.S. Medical Aid Following Terrorist Attacks

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr.
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, May 24, 2012 – The U.S. military has provided emergency medical aid to Yemen that’s being used to help treat Yemeni soldiers and others who’d been wounded in a May 21 terrorist suicide bombing attack in the country’s capital, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little told reporters today.

A U.S. Air Force C-130 aircraft yesterday delivered more than 13,000 pounds of emergency medical supplies to Sanaa, Yemen’s capital city, Little said. More than 300 people, he added, were killed or injured in the attack.

“U.S. Air Forces Central, part of U.S. Central Command, organized the delivery of supplies in coordination with the State Department,” Little said. “The supplies include bandages, sutures, medication, intravenous fluids and litters, and will be distributed by the Yemeni government to hospitals.”

U.S. officials have condemned the attack. Earlier this week, Little told reporters the attack in Yemen “bears all the hallmarks of having been planned and carried out by Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula.”

 

(c) DoD

RIP PO1 Ryan J. Wilson

 

            The Department of Defense announced today the death of a sailor who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

            Petty Officer 1st Class Ryan J. Wilson, 26, of Shasta, Calif., died of complications associated with a medical condition May 20 in Manama, Bahrain.  Wilson was assigned to U.S. Naval Forces Central Command headquarters in Bahrain.

 

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare) Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

Hague - we won't abandon Afghan people

A Defence Policy and Business news article

25 May 12

The international community will not abandon the Afghan people was the clear message sent from the NATO Chicago Summit this week, UK Foreign Secretary William Hague has said.

In his latest Afghanistan monthly progress report Mr Hague updated Parliament via a written statement on progress for April. Although he said he will provide further details on the Chicago Summit in the May report he did say:

"At the NATO Chicago Summit on 20 and 21 May, the international community demonstrated its enduring support to Afghanistan beyond the end of security transition. Plans were discussed for future funding of the ANSF [Afghan National Security Forces] and NATO's post-2014 role was agreed.

"This sent a clear message to the Afghan people that we will not abandon them, and a clear message to the insurgency that they cannot wait us out."

On violence levels in April Mr Hague said:

"Now that spring has arrived, insurgent activity across Afghanistan has continued to increase. This is in line with historic and seasonal norms. While violent incidents in April were comparable with April 2011 levels, it is significant that year-to-date figures remain lower than in 2011.

"These trends remind us that there is still work to be done, but also reflect the high tempo of operations in the country as the Afghans, supported by ISAF, continue to exert pressure on the insurgency.

"Regional Command (South West), which includes Task Force Helmand in the UK's area of operations, saw a steady increase in insurgent activity in the first half of April. However, in the second half of the month enemy activity decreased due to the onset of the poppy harvest.

"This temporary lull in activity is expected to last into early May, after which point we can expect to see a gradual increase in violent incidents, with activity peaking during the summer months.

"In Helmand province, insurgents conducted an attack on the Musa Qal'ah district police headquarters on 11 April. The attack resulted in the deaths of nine members of the ANSF and injured the district chief of police.

"The incident is the latest in a series of attacks and assassination attempts on government and security officials across Afghanistan and illustrated insurgent intent to target those who most threaten their campaign."

On the growth and capability of the Afghan National Security Forces Mr Hague said:

"At the NATO Joint Foreign and Defence Ministers Meeting on 18 April, the UK announced a contribution of £70m per annum to help fund the Afghan National Security Forces for a period after our forces withdraw from their combat role at the end of 2014.

"This funding will be kept under review and will contribute to a wider $4.1bn fund that is being raised by the Afghans and the wider international community.

"The majority of contributions are expected to be announced in the coming weeks. The UK's contribution will be provided in addition to our lead supporting role at the Afghan National Army Officer Academy."

Mr Hague also reiterated that, on 13 May, the Afghan Government announced the areas to be included in Tranche Three of the transition process. This tranche includes Nahr-e Saraj, which is in the area of UK operations. He added that he will be reporting more fully on the detail of the Tranche Three announcement in the May report.

He referred also to the G8 Summit on 18 May, where he said Heads of State endorsed the Tokyo Conference process that will produce a blueprint for Afghanistan's sustainable economic development for the 'Transformation Decade' (2015 to 2024). He added:

"Heads of State looked forward to making long-term commitments at Tokyo, and emphasised mutual accountability and governance improvements, building on the agreements reached at the Bonn Conference last year. The G8 also agreed to support efforts to encourage private sector investment in Afghanistan and the region, and to increase regional integration and trade.

"We now look forward to the Tokyo Conference in July when the international community and the Government of Afghanistan must agree long-term mutual commitments for the Transformation Decade, with concrete pledges from donor partners for at least the period 2015 to 2017. It is vital that we and our international partners help to provide continuity through to the point of transition and immediately beyond."

 

(c) MoD

Ships Sail into NYC for Fleet Week Celebration

From Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Public Affairs

NEW YORK (NNS) -- Six U.S. Navy ships, three U.S. Coast Guard cutters and 12 coalition ships from around the world sailed into New York harbor to commence Fleet Week New York 2012, May 23.

Approximately 6,000 Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen descended upon the city to celebrate the 25th Fleet Week New York, taking place May 23-30.

NEW YORK (May 23, 2012) The U.S. Navy Band Northeast performs during a Fleet Week New York 2012 event hosted by the Boys & Girls Club of Harlem at the Frederick Douglas Academy. Fleet Week New York 2012 marks the 25th year the city has celebrated the nation's sea services. This year, the seven-day event coincides with the commemoration of the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 and will host more than 6,000 service members from the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard team in addition to coalition ships from around the world. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason Daniel Johnston/Released)

This year the sea services join together to commemorate the bicentennial of the War of 1812. Fleet Week has been New York City's celebration of the sea services since 1984. It is an unparalleled opportunity for citizens of New York and the surrounding area to meet Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen, as well as see, firsthand, the latest capabilities of today's maritime services.

"I'm glad to be here with the Wasp to commemorate the War of 1812 and to get to be home and see my family since I haven't seen them in quite some time," said Aviation Support Equipment Technician 2nd Class Angel Garcia, from Bronx, N.Y. and currently stationed aboard USS Wasp (LHD 1).

Canada: CT NG members train with multinational forces

By Army National Guard Sgt. Jerry Boffen
Connecticut National Guard

GAGETOWN, New Brunswick (5/23/12) – Recently, about 200 Connecticut Army National Guard members from the 1st Battalion, 169th Aviation Regiment, worked alongside several multinational partners from the Canadian army’s artillery, aviation, engineering and infantry schools, as well as members of the Jamaican Defense Forces, 2nd Royal Canadian Regiment.

Connecticut Army National Guard Soldiers from D Company, 1-169th Aviation Regiment, perform routine inspection and maintenance on the tail end of a UH-60 Black hawk helicopter at a Canadian army training site in Gagetown, New Brunswick, May 12, 2012. The Soldiers were training in Canada as a part of their two-week annual training exercise. (Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Jerry Boffen)(Released)

The Connecticut units that participated in the training - May 6 to 16 -  included Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1-169th Aviation Regiment; B Company, 2-104th Aviation Regiment; C Company, 3-142nd Aviation Regiment; D Company, 1-169th Aviation Regiment; and E Company, 1-169th Aviation Regiment.

These units’ responsibilities encompass the many facets of aviations operations, such as flight planning and tracking, weather monitoring, UH-60 Black hawk helicopter flight and maintenance, CH-47 Chinook helicopter flight and maintenance, and headquarters support, including vehicle maintenance and repair, supply operations and other tasks.

Combat: Behind the scenes

5/24/2012  By Cpl. Ed Galo,  Regimental Combat Team 6 

FORWARD OPERATING BASE DELARAM II, Afghanistan  — The Marines and sailors with Regimental Combat Team 6 and its subordinate battalions have been working nonstop on a combat operation referred to as Operation Jaws since February.

The operation’s goal was to disrupt the enemy and establish stronger footholds in areas where insurgents have seen few American or coalition forces. The latest phase of the operation took place in the Geston Valley where Marines and sailors with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment cleared over 10 villages of insurgents.

Maj. Jonathan O’Gorman was charged with the execution of the operation.

“It was nice to get out there and be closer to the Marines; actually talk to guys on the radio and run the battle,” said O’Gorman, assistant operations officer, RCT-6. “In that sense it was exciting. I wouldn’t say, necessarily that (being charged with the execution) was hard, I would say there were some challenges in terms of what we were trying to do.”

"Flags In" at Arlington

May 24, 2012

Earlier today, Arlington National Cemetery honored our nation’s fallen military heroes during a “Flags-In” ceremony. 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) Soldiers placed an American flag in front of more than 220,000 graves. Soldiers also placed American flags at the Tomb of the Unknowns and at the cemetery’s Columbarium.

Pfc. Jose Vazquez, 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), places an American flag in front of a grave stone at Arlington National Cemetery for Memorial Day weekend. This tradition, known as "flags in," has been conducted annually since The Old Guard was designated as the Army's official ceremonial unit in 1948. Every available soldier in the 3rd U.S. Infantry participates, placing small American flags one foot in front and centered before each grave marker. (Photo by Sgt. Jose Torres)

This tradition, known as "flags in," has been conducted annually since The Old Guard was designated as the Army's official ceremonial unit in 1948. Every available soldier in the 3rd U.S. Infantry participates, placing small American flags one foot in front and centered before each grave marker.

Courtesy 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard)

War In Afghanistan 25 May 2012

In Kajaki district, Helmand province, an Afghan and coalition security force conducted a security operation Monday.

As a result of the operation, the Afghan and coalition security force discovered several narcotics production facilities and destroyed 1,410 kilograms (3,102 pounds) of poppy seed, 220 kilograms (484 pounds) of wet opium, 10 kilograms (22 pounds) of ammonium nitrate and drug production equipment.

During the operation, the security force was engaged by multiple insurgents. The force returned fire and killed several of the insurgents.

Tailor the way you get your War On Terror News

In other International Security Assistance Force news throughout Afghanistan:

RIP 2LT Travis A. Morgado

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. 

            2nd Lt. Travis A. Morgado, 25, of San Jose, Calif., died May 23 in Zharay, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when insurgents attacked his patrol with an improvised explosive device.  He was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.

 

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare) Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

Middle East News 24 May 2012

Iran nuclear talks moving to Moscow: Six world powers holding nuclear talks with Iran in Baghdad agreed Thursday to hold another round of negotiations in Moscow next month to try to resolve international concerns about the Iranian nuclear program.

In Egypt, Muslim Brotherhood claims early lead in the vote counting after two days of historical vote.  This according to exit polls. The reliability of the Brotherhood's polls could not be confirmed. Regional television channels, citing their own exit polls, also placed Morsi as the top finisher, with rivals Ahmed Shafiq and Hamdeen Sabahi vying for second place.

Pakistan on Thursday rejected U.S. criticism of the jailing of Shakeel Afridi, a Pakistani doctor who helped the United States track down Osama bin Laden, while a U.S. congressional panel cut aid to protest his imprisonment.

Details after the break.

RAF Tucanos support front line operations

A Training and Adventure news article

24 May 12

RAF Linton-on-Ouse is using its fleet of Tucano aircraft to help train pilots and Army controllers for front line duties.

RAF Tucano training aircraft over the Lake District (stock image)[Picture: Corporal Scott Robertson RAF, Crown Copyright/MOD 2008]

Home to No 1 Flying Training School (1 FTS), the RAF station in the Vale of York is one of the busiest airfields in the UK.

Tasked with the training of future fast jet pilots for the Royal Air Force and Fleet Air Arm, the Station's fleet of 40 Tucano T1 aircraft are now also providing direct support to army units preparing for operations in Afghanistan.

"We're enjoying a busy period of flying," explained the Station Commander, Group Captain Terry Jones.

"Training the next generation of fast jet pilots, conducting close air support sorties for the Army, providing targets for air defence exercises and working up for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee flypast all mean that our flying rate is high.

"We currently have 19 ab initio [beginner] pilots in training here, which is four courses' worth of students. We'll soon have five courses and at any one time we have six refresher courses. When you put all that together that's a lot of flying."

Following the disbandment of 207(R) Squadron in January this year, it falls to 72(R) Squadron to prepare students for advanced jet training on the Hawk T2 at RAF Valley.

"Our primary focus is training fast jet pilots which gives us our raison d'etre," said Wing Commander Richie Bedford, Officer Commanding 72 (R) Squadron.

"The students are the energy of the squadron and keep us all feeling young."

Having entered RAF service in 1989 when it replaced the Jet Provost, the Tucano remains an ideal training aircraft in Wg Cdr Bedford's view:

"The platform itself is more than adequate for basic flying and is a step up from a Tutor, with the course here including an introduction to time-on-target, low-level navigation and advanced formation flying.

"Because of its nature, the Tucano is relatively easy to fly, but to fly it well takes some time and effort, so it gives you a good grasp of a student's progress and future capability. It certainly stretches students."

He added:

"We're looking for ability to handle the aircraft but also captaincy, airmanship, situational awareness, decision-making – those skills you can transfer to any aircraft so if you can develop them here at an early stage it will stand them in good stead for their future careers."

As well as training frontline pilots, the Tucanos at Linton also now help provide support to the training of Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTAC), formerly known as Forward Air Controllers - skilled personnel who direct close air support and other offensive air operations from forward positions.

"We're doing more close air support with Tucano, not with students but with instructors to help JTACs maintain currency," said Gp Capt Jones. "We've set aside 500 hours each year to do this and it's been extremely successful.

"Much like pilots, JTACs have to remain current and by using Tucano we can complement the fast jet training already available."

With a readjustment of pilot training following the Strategic Defence and Security Review, the commitment of front line jets to operations over Libya and a general shortfall in JTAC currency, training using the Tucano for a task previously reserved for jets has proven an ideal solution for all concerned.

The new role also has the added benefit of maintaining the close air support skills of instructors:

"It enables them to maintain core close air support (CAS) skills, which pilots can take back to the front line after their tour here," said Flight Lieutenant Ben James.

"We have front line pilots from different aircraft types who bring different experiences and techniques on how their particular aircraft does CAS.

"JTACS will work with various aircraft platforms in theatre and so we try and emulate those aircraft, not only in performance but also the terminology, the weapons they carry and how they are delivered, and the sensors on board.

The Tucano does a very good impression of a Reaper unmanned air vehicle (UAV) and, somewhat remarkably, a US A-10 Thunderbolt.

"We're not too far behind an A-10 in terms of performance, but we can be whatever aircraft the JTAC wants us to be," said Flt Lt James.

JTAC training missions are usually flown dual, students often taken along to see some tactical flying to give them an early understanding of what's involved.

"We have a long endurance on Tucano and can stay on station for more than two hours," said Flt Lt James. "This is of huge benefit to the JTACs, whose training is achieved far quicker than with a fast jet."

Techniques flown include medium-level CAS, low-level CAS, and joint fires integration with a time-on-target, the flight profiles flown by Tucano simulating various operational aircraft varying from a UAV to a B-1 bomber.

Reducing the demand on the front line fleet has obvious advantages; not least cost, but to realistically emulate a complex strike aircraft the Tucano pilot has to be experienced.

Whilst predominately a flying station, activity at Linton-on-Ouse is diverse:

"There's a lot going on here," said Gp Capt Jones. "We provide Air Traffic Control to 4 bases (Linton, Dishforth, Topcliffe and Church Fenton) and provide a home for HQ Northern Region Air Training, the Tucano and Glider Support Authority, and the MOD Police Operational Support Unit North."

Since January, the station has also been the base for the AgustaWestland Helicopter Tactics Simulator, which trains 12 aircrew every three weeks in preparation for Afghanistan and has successfully integrated the Yorkshire Air Ambulance into RAF Topcliffe.

"This is a great place to be at the moment, and I'm very proud of the huge contribution that my personnel achieve with such modest resources," said Gp Capt Jones.

 

(c) MoD

F-35B lifts off for first flight at Eglin

5/23/2012  By Chrissy Cuttita  , Headquarters Marine Corps 

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla.  — 

An F-35B Lightning II made its first flight at Eglin Air Force Base today, two months after 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing officially introduced the Marine Corps' fifth generation fighter to the world at the 33rd Fighter Wing.

"Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 has had an exciting year with the arrival of our first three aircraft in January, the official roll out ceremony in February and now generating sorties along with other military service and contract partners here," said Lt. Col. David R. Berke, commanding officer of VMFAT-501.

KRH help build CP Samander in Helmand

18.5.2012

As the Afghan Uniform Police take the lead in crime prevention in Helmand province it is increasingly important that the infrastructure upon which they rely is sustainable post-transition.

The new Check Point, CP Samander, has been specially designed and built from local materials, using local methods of construction enabling easy repair.

The handover was attended by local elders, police officers and a collection of individuals from ISAF. The construction of the CP was managed by the Afghan Uniform Police with assistance provided by the partnering force from The King’s Royal Hussars.

The KRH are the lead unit within the Lashkar Gah district which has fully transitioned to the Afghan Forces who are taking lead responsibility for security. The KRH are working as an infantry unit within the Lashkar Gah district of Helmand province and are responsible for partnering the Afghan Forces.

Major Alex Michael Officer Commanding C Squadron, The King’s Royal Hussars said: "It has been a tremendous success to see the Afghans develop their own infrastructure and provide a checkpoint made of materials easily and locally sourced."